UFC looking to do Dominick Cruz-Urijah Faber III in July

The UFC now has a tentative date/event targeted for the upcoming title-fight between bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz and fan-favorite Urijah Faber. According to CEO Lorenzo Fertitta, the organization is aiming for July 7 at UFC 148 in Las Vegas, giving the bout both a major stage to play out on as well as an event far enough away to allow Faber-Cruz to fully prepare after coaching this upcoming season of the Ultimate Fighter.

Fertitta confirmed the UFC’s plans via Twitter.

“The California Kid” will be looking to avoid a case of déjà vu when he clashes with Cruz after losing a hard-fought, five-round decision in July allowing rival Cruz to retain his title and even the score at 1-1 a piece. Faber beat Cruz as a featherweight in WEC. The 26-5 Faber submitted Brian Bowles in his only fight since the scrap, his third victory in four outings.

Meanwhile, Cruz will be looking to close the chapter of his life dedicated to Faber by edging him out in their trilogy. The 26-year old champ holds an overall record of 19-1 and hasn’t been beaten in five years.

TUF 15 is set to debut on FX come March 9 and will feature Faber/Cruz serving as the heads of two teams comprised of lightweights/welterweights.